OBJECTIVES: To investigate self-reported sexual experiences, abortions, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), use of contraception and possible influencing factors on contraceptive use among Swedish high school students. METHODS: An anonymous classroom survey was distributed to a random sample (n = 924) of 18-year-old high school students in a medium-sized Swedish city. The response rate was 78% (n = 718). RESULTS: Three out of four students had experienced intercourse and the majority of them stated that they were satisfied with their sexual life. Few students reported having had an abortion (5%) or a STI (4%). Alcohol use appeared the most important contributing risk factor for non-use of contraception in relation to both first and latest intercourse, and the young men reported more unprotected latest intercourse than the young women did. CONCLUSION: The fact that young men appear less inclined to use contraception is disturbing, and must be addressed in sexual education and individual counseling to promote a better sexual health for adolescents.
OBJECTIVES: To investigate self-reported sexual experiences, abortions, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), use of contraception and possible influencing factors on contraceptive use among Swedish high school students. METHODS: An anonymous classroom survey was distributed to a random sample (n = 924) of 18-year-old high school students in a medium-sized Swedish city. The response rate was 78% (n = 718). RESULTS: Three out of four students had experienced intercourse and the majority of them stated that they were satisfied with their sexual life. Few students reported having had an abortion (5%) or a STI (4%). Alcohol use appeared the most important contributing risk factor for non-use of contraception in relation to both first and latest intercourse, and the young men reported more unprotected latest intercourse than the young women did. CONCLUSION: The fact that young men appear less inclined to use contraception is disturbing, and must be addressed in sexual education and individual counseling to promote a better sexual health for adolescents.
Authors: Helena Kopp Kallner; Louise Thunell; Jan Brynhildsen; Mia Lindeberg; Kristina Gemzell Danielsson Journal: PLoS One Date: 2015-05-20 Impact factor: 3.240